Festival celebrates heritage of Galson Estate, 100 years since resettlement of Galson village

Simon Fraser Memorial Series talk with Brian Wilson during Dùthchas

As part of the celebrations to mark 100 years since the resettlement of Galson village, Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn will host one of Community Land Scotland’s talks in its Simon Fraser Memorial series, with Brian Wilson, during its extended heritage festival, Dùthchas next month.

Brian Wilson, former Labour MP and former Chair of Harris Tweed Hebrides, will present “Why Land Reform Matters: The power of people and place”. The series, which has seen Community Land Scotland deliver six events in Edinburgh, Gigha, Glasgow, Staffin and London, was established in memory of Simon Fraser. The series has focused on the stories of community owners, the change they created, and how their legacy might shape the future, whilst paying tribute to the memory of Simon Fraser, a solicitor and pioneer of land reform in Scotland, who was instrumental in the success of some of the early community buyouts.

Iain Craig, Community Land Scotland, commented: “Each event in the Simon Fraser Memorial series discusses and unpicks different elements of community land ownership in Scotland. It’s been a joy to celebrate Simon’s life and achievements through lively discussions and by inspiring folk to think about what might be possible in their own community. Each of these events has been livestreamed and recorded, so they can be accessed on the Community Land Scotland website at any time.

“I’d particularly like to thank each of the hosting organisations events for their commitment and hard work, and to Simon’s family for their support of and participation in the programme. It’s been an honour to deliver this series in Simon’s memory. He worked tirelessly, and we would most likely not be celebrating 100 Years of Community Ownership now, without his contributions. This project aims to build a digital archive of community ownership across Scotland, which can be accessed at www.100years.scot.”

Brian Wilson’s talk will be the finale event of Dùthchas, on Friday 20th September, and will take place at the Clan MacQuarrie Community Centre. Tickets are free however early booking is advised as there is limited space available.

Dùthchas, which is a Gaelic word to describe a place, land or country one was born in/feels akin to or a custom which has been passed down through generations, starts on the 7th September and over the two weeks will feature over 25 events, from guided historical walks through Galson and Borve in North Lewis, daily Gaelic classes, ceilidhs, films, poetry workshops, discussions with authors, cookery demos and more. The festival, which first took place in 2018, aims to highlight the heritage of the region, bringing awareness to local traditions and cultures, whilst also proving to be a great opportunity for visitors to the area to learn about Galson.

Other highlights of this year’s festival include musical lunches at Comunn Eachdraidh Nis with musician and singer Robert John MacInnes, and DB and Murdigan; discussions with Acair authors Frank Rennie and Joni Buchanan about their latest books; a ceilidh to celebrate Comunn na Gàidhlig’s 40th anniversary, in partnership with Blas Festival; and cookery demonstrations and tastings with The Niseach Chef, Allan Macritchie, where he will be teaching participants how to cook some favourite Hebridean dishes, with the chance to taste it all too.

Janet Macleod, Cultural Engagement Officer, Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn, said: “This year, to mark the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the resettlement of Galson Village, we are delighted to be extending this year’s Dùthchas, with an extra week of events. The area is home to a rich heritage and we hope that the range of events this year goes some way in showcasing this, with something for everyone. Whether you have lived here all your life, or happen to be on holiday, we welcome everyone to come along to one of our events and enjoy the traditions and culture Galson Estate has to offer.

“We are grateful to all our partners for working with us to produce such an interesting festival programme this year and thankful to those who will be sharing their wealth of knowledge and talent with our audiences throughout the festival next month.”

For more information about Dùthchas and the events taking place, please click here, where you will also find information about how to book tickets.